Disrupting Class
By Clayton Christensen
Review by Jennifer King
Christensen’s book, Disrupting Class is a must read for all teachers whether you are a new hire or a seasoned veteran.Disrupting Class explains the positive affects of new technology which may disrupt the normal way of teaching.Christensen coined the term “student-centric” and believes that there are four factors that will “accelerate substitution”.This means that there are factors that will increase the use of computers in a school for certain reasons.The first reason for substitution of computers is to improve teaching and meet different learning styles.The second reason is to move to a “student-centric” way of teaching.This means that the student will be more in control of what he/she learns and at what rate of speed the student wishes to go.The third reason for substitution is the shortage of teachers in a given area.The fourth reason surprised me the most, cost.Christensen stated that because students would be working at their own speed and on the computer, more students would be able to be under one teacher who would look more like a facilitator.Christensen stated that the “focus on courses that the public schools would be relieved not to teach, but feel they need to offer”.He believes that many of these computer based, student-centric programs will be extremely successful and has given examples of how some have been successful.In Brigham Young, one professor has developed a virtual chemistry lab (Virtual ChemLab).This is a fantastic plan that shifts the normal, “monolithic” way of teaching to the “student-centric” way of teaching. Pros: ·There could be a possible increase in pay for teachers because the student-teacher ratio would increase. ·The “student-centric” way of teaching is better for the student because he/she would be able to move at their own pace and test whenever they finish instead of waiting for the rest of the class or the end of the six weeks. ·The student would be measured by how much knowledge was gained instead of test scores. ·One-on-one time with each student would increase because there would not be time wasted with discipline, preparing for lessons, teaching and testing. ·If the “student-centric” computer environment is implemented correctly, “disruptively is not a threat”. ·True learning can be successful in this natural way.Teachers would be able to move around the class and take the roll of “learning leaders”. Cons: ·Technology is constantly changing and evolving, making it difficult to keep up with the best methods. ·Funding for implementation may be difficult at first and maintaining computers is expensive. ·Teachers unions and administration may not want or like change. ·Teachers may be resistant to try this new way of teaching and feel threatened by the computer by their lack of experience.
There are five basic messages in Christensen’s book.The first is that there are few reforms that actually find the problem with the current system and why students are not successful.The second message is that reformers have tried to change the system instead of creating a system that truly disrupts the system.Christensen believes that real innovations come from a need and “must go around and underneath the system”.The third message is that we need to teach our students in their learning styles and customize their education, especially if we want them to be excited about learning and stay in school.The fourth message is that of the politics that surround the school and the limitations.The last message is that of the administrators and leaders of the school and community.They will need to want to change and implement the programs in their schools.Along with a great fictitious story line to keep the reader engaged, Christensen gives many examples of disruptive innovations in the business sector of the world and compares these to changes in our own schools.Christensen is an easy read with ideas and explanations that will excite the reader to dream big. Disruptive class should be on every teachers and administrators “must-read” list.
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[["The Dumbest Generation"]] “The Dumbest Generation” by Mark Bauerlein
Reviewed by Jennifer King
Bauerlein’s book, “The Dumbest Generation” is a difficult read for anyone who enjoys using technology in and out of the classroom.Bauerlein does make a strong argument regarding the necessity of balance and he has strong opinions with regard to technology and our youth.Bauerlein has many examples of the problems with youth and he tends to be one-sided.However, the evidence may lean the reader away from using technology.
Pros:
Bauerlein seems to be exasperated at the blatant disregard to reading and learning.He asked “If the Information Age solicits quicker and savvier literacies, why do so many new entrants into college and work end up in remediation?”He also stressed that reading is easier and cheaper than any other leisure activity; however, he tends to believe that many people are not reading enough.Bauerlein suggest that balance is essential for social development but, playing video games and watching TV may hinder this development; “Children pass as many moments in front of a screen as they do playing outside (two hours and one minute), and the number of kids who let a day pass without enjoying screen images is less than the number of those who spend a day without opening a book.”Bauerlein does state numerous facts and statistics for his views and opinions, like “A 2004 study from the National Commission on Writing surveyed business leaders and found that a significant portion of them complain of serious reading and writing problems among new employees, forcing corporate America to spend approximately $3.1 billion annually on in-house literacy tutoring.”
Cons:
I never felt as though Bauerlein was even willing to envision using technology.His opinion of youth seemed to be unfair and I felt that he lacked regard to what is developmentally appropriate for the age in which he was so critical.Youth are self-centered and self-absorbed.That is why we, as professors, teachers and mentors work to advance their view of the world around them.Bauerlein was extremely critical of mentors, as well as social networking sites.He viewed these social networking sites as unnecessary and even a hindrance to real social issues.I found Bauerlein’s complex wording to be unnecessary and distracting from his actual message.
Although I found “The Dumbest Generation” exceedingly biased, Bauerlein does give some convincing arguments.At times, I felt he was unwilling to take a chance and try any theory except his own.I also found Bauerlein’s use of language to be blatantly egocentric.
“Don’t Bother Me Mom – I’m Learning”
By Marc Prensky
Reviewed by Jennifer King
Prensky intrigued and altered my preconceived notions regarding video games and teens.Can hours of video games actually be beneficial to a young mind?Can we use cell phone technology to engage children in school?Prensky has compelling statements regarding video games, cell phones and the roll of teachers in schools. Pros
Prensky argued that "Kids learn more positive, useful things for their future from their video games than they learn in school!"They learn team work and more complex programming from the video games than they do in the classroom.Prensky also believes that “Being successful at playing today’s computer games helps you succeed in life”.Video games have the ability to teach children economics and business lessons.Video games, such as RuneScape or Roller Coaster Tycoon may help children learn more complex business concepts in a fun and unforced environment.
Healthy video games are already being used in the medical profession today. Children learn about medical conditions, like diabetes, and how to live healthier lives with the disease.Prensky quoted Dr. James Rosser’s findings “that doctors who played videogames earlier in their lives made almost forty percent fewer mistakes in surgery!"Video games are also being used in our military training, saving money in virtual environments before going into the real field for training.Many other businesses are modifying games to fit their training needs. Prensky’s statement “voice-only phones have more complex and powerful chips than the 1969 on-board computer that landed a spaceship on the moon” shocked me.Our cell phones are mini computers with much more capabilities that we are not using.Japan, China, Germany and the Philippines are using cell phones in school to teach and engage students. Cons Although Prensky suggest a balanced life, this book tends to be extremely biased.How did Dr. Rosser research his surgeons?Prensky suggests that students can learn by themselves using games or with a “counselor” and not a teacher.This is a dangerous statement and more research needs to be done in order to make a more educated decision in this regard.
Prensky never really explains how to use cell phones in classrooms.How do we prevent chatting during the lesson?Does he really think that all information should be accessed on a phone instead of in the students mind?
Prensky said that balance and communication was important, but never gave any guidelines.Does he think that three hours of video games is acceptable?.That is almost all of the evening when a child comes home.When do the students have time for family or friends, let alone study for class?
Prensky tends to state the same thing over and over again, which makes reading this book predictable and at times monotonous.Although, I have to admit that Prensky will make you rethink what society has taught you about video games, cell phones (other technology) and teaching with this new generation of what he calls the “digital natives”. I would recommend this book to any parent or teacher who is struggling with using technology. Presnsky has some very interensting thoughts that made me think differently in regard to video games, cell phones and the possible roles of teachers in school.
Disrupting Class
By Clayton Christensen
Review by Jennifer King
Christensen’s book, Disrupting Class is a must read for all teachers whether you are a new hire or a seasoned veteran. Disrupting Class explains the positive affects of new technology which may disrupt the normal way of teaching. Christensen coined the term “student-centric” and believes that there are four factors that will “accelerate substitution”. This means that there are factors that will increase the use of computers in a school for certain reasons. The first reason for substitution of computers is to improve teaching and meet different learning styles. The second reason is to move to a “student-centric” way of teaching. This means that the student will be more in control of what he/she learns and at what rate of speed the student wishes to go. The third reason for substitution is the shortage of teachers in a given area. The fourth reason surprised me the most, cost. Christensen stated that because students would be working at their own speed and on the computer, more students would be able to be under one teacher who would look more like a facilitator. Christensen stated that the “focus on courses that the public schools would be relieved not to teach, but feel they need to offer”. He believes that many of these computer based, student-centric programs will be extremely successful and has given examples of how some have been successful. In Brigham Young, one professor has developed a virtual chemistry lab (Virtual ChemLab). This is a fantastic plan that shifts the normal, “monolithic” way of teaching to the “student-centric” way of teaching.
Pros:
· There could be a possible increase in pay for teachers because the student-teacher ratio would increase.
· The “student-centric” way of teaching is better for the student because he/she would be able to move at their own pace and test whenever they finish instead of waiting for the rest of the class or the end of the six weeks.
· The student would be measured by how much knowledge was gained instead of test scores.
· One-on-one time with each student would increase because there would not be time wasted with discipline, preparing for lessons, teaching and testing.
· If the “student-centric” computer environment is implemented correctly, “disruptively is not a threat”.
· True learning can be successful in this natural way. Teachers would be able to move around the class and take the roll of “learning leaders”.
Cons:
· Technology is constantly changing and evolving, making it difficult to keep up with the best methods.
· Funding for implementation may be difficult at first and maintaining computers is expensive.
· Teachers unions and administration may not want or like change.
· Teachers may be resistant to try this new way of teaching and feel threatened by the computer by their lack of experience.
There are five basic messages in Christensen’s book. The first is that there are few reforms that actually find the problem with the current system and why students are not successful. The second message is that reformers have tried to change the system instead of creating a system that truly disrupts the system. Christensen believes that real innovations come from a need and “must go around and underneath the system”. The third message is that we need to teach our students in their learning styles and customize their education, especially if we want them to be excited about learning and stay in school. The fourth message is that of the politics that surround the school and the limitations. The last message is that of the administrators and leaders of the school and community. They will need to want to change and implement the programs in their schools. Along with a great fictitious story line to keep the reader engaged, Christensen gives many examples of disruptive innovations in the business sector of the world and compares these to changes in our own schools. Christensen is an easy read with ideas and explanations that will excite the reader to dream big. Disruptive class should be on every teachers and administrators “must-read” list.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[["The Dumbest Generation"]]
by Mark Bauerlein
Reviewed by Jennifer King
Bauerlein’s book, “The Dumbest Generation” is a difficult read for anyone who enjoys using technology in and out of the classroom. Bauerlein does make a strong argument regarding the necessity of balance and he has strong opinions with regard to technology and our youth. Bauerlein has many examples of the problems with youth and he tends to be one-sided. However, the evidence may lean the reader away from using technology.
Pros:
Bauerlein seems to be exasperated at the blatant disregard to reading and learning. He asked “If the Information Age solicits quicker and savvier literacies, why do so many new entrants into college and work end up in remediation?” He also stressed that reading is easier and cheaper than any other leisure activity; however, he tends to believe that many people are not reading enough. Bauerlein suggest that balance is essential for social development but, playing video games and watching TV may hinder this development; “Children pass as many moments in front of a screen as they do playing outside (two hours and one minute), and the number of kids who let a day pass without enjoying screen images is less than the number of those who spend a day without opening a book.” Bauerlein does state numerous facts and statistics for his views and opinions, like “A 2004 study from the National Commission on Writing surveyed business leaders and found that a significant portion of them complain of serious reading and writing problems among new employees, forcing corporate America to spend approximately $3.1 billion annually on in-house literacy tutoring.”
Cons:
I never felt as though Bauerlein was even willing to envision using technology. His opinion of youth seemed to be unfair and I felt that he lacked regard to what is developmentally appropriate for the age in which he was so critical. Youth are self-centered and self-absorbed. That is why we, as professors, teachers and mentors work to advance their view of the world around them. Bauerlein was extremely critical of mentors, as well as social networking sites. He viewed these social networking sites as unnecessary and even a hindrance to real social issues. I found Bauerlein’s complex wording to be unnecessary and distracting from his actual message.
Although I found “The Dumbest Generation” exceedingly biased, Bauerlein does give some convincing arguments. At times, I felt he was unwilling to take a chance and try any theory except his own. I also found Bauerlein’s use of language to be blatantly egocentric.
“Don’t Bother Me Mom – I’m Learning”
By Marc Prensky
Reviewed by Jennifer King
Prensky intrigued and altered my preconceived notions regarding video games and teens. Can hours of video games actually be beneficial to a young mind? Can we use cell phone technology to engage children in school? Prensky has compelling statements regarding video games, cell phones and the roll of teachers in schools.
Pros
Prensky argued that "Kids learn more positive, useful things for their future from their video games than they learn in school!" They learn team work and more complex programming from the video games than they do in the classroom. Prensky also believes that “Being successful at playing today’s computer games helps you succeed in life”. Video games have the ability to teach children economics and business lessons. Video games, such as RuneScape or Roller Coaster Tycoon may help children learn more complex business concepts in a fun and unforced environment.
Healthy video games are already being used in the medical profession today. Children learn about medical conditions, like diabetes, and how to live healthier lives with the disease. Prensky quoted Dr. James Rosser’s findings “that doctors who played videogames earlier in their lives made almost forty percent fewer mistakes in surgery!" Video games are also being used in our military training, saving money in virtual environments before going into the real field for training. Many other businesses are modifying games to fit their training needs.
Prensky’s statement “voice-only phones have more complex and powerful chips than the 1969 on-board computer that landed a spaceship on the moon” shocked me. Our cell phones are mini computers with much more capabilities that we are not using. Japan, China, Germany and the Philippines are using cell phones in school to teach and engage students. Cons
Although Prensky suggest a balanced life, this book tends to be extremely biased. How did Dr. Rosser research his surgeons? Prensky suggests that students can learn by themselves using games or with a “counselor” and not a teacher. This is a dangerous statement and more research needs to be done in order to make a more educated decision in this regard.
Prensky never really explains how to use cell phones in classrooms. How do we prevent chatting during the lesson? Does he really think that all information should be accessed on a phone instead of in the students mind?
Prensky said that balance and communication was important, but never gave any guidelines. Does he think that three hours of video games is acceptable?. That is almost all of the evening when a child comes home. When do the students have time for family or friends, let alone study for class?
Prensky tends to state the same thing over and over again, which makes reading this book predictable and at times monotonous. Although, I have to admit that Prensky will make you rethink what society has taught you about video games, cell phones (other technology) and teaching with this new generation of what he calls the “digital natives”. I would recommend this book to any parent or teacher who is struggling with using technology. Presnsky has some very interensting thoughts that made me think differently in regard to video games, cell phones and the possible roles of teachers in school.